High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide Non-biodegradable microplastics have become a global problem. We propose a new enzyme-embedded biodegradable plastic that can be self-biodegraded anytime and anywhere. Proteinase K from Tritirachium album was embedded in poly( l -lactic acid) (PLLA). The PLLA solution-cast film with embedded proteinase K showed weight loss of 78% after 96 h incubation. In addition, PLLA extruded films embedding immobilized proteinase K encapsulated in polyacrylamide were produced at 200 °C and embedded-enzyme degradation was monitored. Immobilized proteinase K embedded in the extruded film maintained its degradation activity and degraded the PLLA film from inside to make small holes and cavities, suggesting that immobilization is a powerful technique to prepare thermoforms with embedded enzymes. The rate of embedded-enzyme degradation was accelerated by dividing the film into smaller pieces, which can be regarded as a model experiment for biodegradation of microplastics. Various biodegradable plastics with specific embedded enzymes will contribute to solve global environmental problems.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Huang et al. (2020) studied this question.